
Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon 1998
"There's no beauty without the wound"
John Maybury's *Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon* (1998) immerses viewers in the turbulent world of one of Britain's most provocative artists.
Director: John Maybury
Cast










Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon* (1998) about?
The film dives into the tumultuous relationship between iconic artist Francis Bacon and working-class drifter George Dyer in 1960s London. After a chance encounter, their passionate affair evolves into a complex dynamic of love, addiction, and artistic passion.
Who directed *Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon*?
John Maybury directed this gripping drama, known for his visually striking and emotionally charged storytelling.
Who stars in *Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon*?
The film features Derek Jacobi as Francis Bacon, Daniel Craig as George Dyer, Tilda Swinton in a supporting role, and Anne Lambton, Adrian Scarborough, and Karl Johnson in key parts.
Is *Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon* (1998) worth watching?
For fans of intense character dramas and artist biopics, *Love Is the Devil* delivers a raw and compelling narrative. With strong performances and a moody atmosphere, it's a film that lingers long after the credits roll, though its dark themes may not appeal to all viewers.
How long is *Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon*?
The film runs for 92 minutes.
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About Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon (1998) — A raw portrait of art, love, and obsession
John Maybury's *Love Is the Devil: Study for a Portrait of Francis Bacon* (1998) immerses viewers in the turbulent world of one of Britain's most provocative artists. Set against the gritty backdrop of 1960s London, the film traces the intense and volatile relationship between Francis Bacon, the enigmatic and temperamental painter, and George Dyer, a working-class burglar whose life becomes entwined with Bacon's bohemian circle. As Dyer grapples with addiction and insecurity, their passionate yet destructive bond unfolds against a canvas of raw emotion and creative genius. The film blends raw realism with artistic flair, capturing the rawness of love, obsession, and self-destruction.
Derek Jacobi delivers a mesmerizing performance as Bacon, embodying the artist's mercurial temperament and magnetic presence, while Daniel Craig shines as the fragile yet resilient Dyer. With Tilda Swinton adding depth to the supporting cast, Maybury crafts a visually striking drama that explores the intersection of art, identity, and desire. *Love Is the Devil* is a haunting portrait of a love that defies convention, leaving an indelible mark on the soul.